Definition of cardinal virtue in English:

noun

One of the author's most helpful analyses is based on the four cardinal virtues of prudence, fortitude, justice and temperance.

John L. Frank said, ‘I remember Ernest once teaching us that the Christian virtue par excellence was not a theological virtue like faith, hope, or charity, nor was it a cardinal virtue like fortitude, temperance, justice, or prudence.’

That it had a central position in every ethical action he demonstrated by appealing to the cardinal virtues of justice, prudence, self-control, and courage.